Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a hearty bowl of bean and ham soup, a classic dish that evokes nostalgia and satisfies taste buds. It’s a culinary masterpiece that combines the savory flavors of tender ham, earthy beans, and aromatic vegetables. This recipe is easy to follow, and with a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this comforting soup in no time.
This versatile soup can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a thick and creamy texture or a lighter broth, you can adjust the ingredients to create the perfect soup to warm your soul. So, gather your loved ones, prepare a cozy corner, and let the tantalizing aromas of bean and ham soup fill your kitchen.
The secret to a flavorful bean and ham soup lies in the quality of the ingredients. Choose smoked ham hocks or a smoked ham bone for a rich, smoky flavor. Use a variety of beans to add depth and texture, such as pinto beans, black beans, or kidney beans. And don’t forget the aromatic vegetables like onions, celery, and carrots, which will create a flavorful base.
How To Make Bean and Ham Soup
Making a delicious bean and ham soup is as simple as following these easy steps:
Ingredients:
2 pounds dried beans (pinto, black, or kidney beans)
1 smoked ham hock or ham bone
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments:
Large Dutch oven or stockpot
Ladle
Measuring cups and spoons
Step by Step:
- Sort and rinse the beans, then soak them in cold water overnight.
- Drain the beans and transfer them to a large Dutch oven or stockpot.
- Add the ham hock or ham bone, chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Remove the ham hock or ham bone and shred the meat.
- Add the shredded ham meat back to the soup.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips or Possible Variation of Bean and Ham Soup
Here are some tips and possible variations to enhance your bean and ham soup experience:
For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot using a fork or potato masher.
Add a splash of white wine or beer to the soup for extra flavor.
Substitute the smoked ham hock or bone with diced ham for a milder flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different types of beans and vegetables to customize the soup to your liking. For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the ham and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Serve the soup with crusty bread or crackers for dipping, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this classic dish.
